Honeymoon like royalty at these 6 fort and palace hotels across India 

After a fairytale wedding, it is natural to want a honeymoon that is just as magical. And nothing is more charming than staying at a palace or fort that is as grand as your love! So, if you’ve always wanted to feel like a royal, plan your honeymoon at these heritage properties in India that are steeped in history and will give you a glimpse of the opulence of a bygone era, without compromising on any of the modern creature comforts. 

Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Bhopal

Head to Bhopal to live like a begum at its Jehan Numa Palace Hotel perched on Shamla hills. The two-storeyed whitewashed property, which is spread across an expansive seven acres, features a mix of Classical Greek, Italian Renaissance, and British Colonial architecture, owing to the period it was built during—the late 1800s. Built by the second son of Sultan Jehan Begum and named after her, you can frolic through its manicured gardens, walk through its gilded corridors lined with portraits of begums past, and enjoy a slice of serenity with your partner lounging by the swimming pool.

Six Senses Fort Barwara, Ranthambore 

The 14th-century Fort Barwara, originally owned by a Rajasthani royal family, has been converted by hospitality group Six Senses into a luxe 48-suite resort that makes for the perfect romantic escape—it served as the venue for Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal’s wedding. The regal fort houses two palaces and two temples, which have been reinterpreted to reflect the traditions from 700 years ago. While each suite is tastefully done in the contemporary Rajasthani style, the ones in the East Wing overlook the countryside, while the ones in the West Wing offer sweeping views of Barwara village. 

Ahilya Fort, Maheshwar 

Offering bird's-eye view of the Narmada river, Ahilya Fort in Madhya Pradesh’s Maheshwar was home to Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar before it was turned into a hotel by her descendant, Prince Richard Holkar. With expansive gardens designed by Holkar himself, there is also an organic garden on the property that provides the royal kitchen with fresh produce. During your stay, don’t forget to sample the regional thaalis made with heirloom recipes during your stay. 

The Belgadia Palace, Mayurbhanj

Palaces are not just restricted to states like Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh—the small town of Baripada in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district is home to the Belgadia Palace, the residence of modern-day princesses Mrinalika Bhanj Deo and Akshita Bhanj Deo, who are part of the Bhanja dynasty that ruled the princely state. The palace also doubles up as a boutique hotel, where you can pick from four different kinds of rooms and suites. If you want to take a break from palatial comforts and explore the area, there is plenty for you to do. Enjoy a traditional Mayurbhanj Chhau performance, go on a walk to discover the medieval ruins of the Haripur fort, visit a handicrafts village, or go bird watching. 

Fort JadhavGADH, Pune 

Built on top of a hillock, Fort JadhavGADH in Pune is a 300-year-old fort that has now been converted into a heritage property. If you’re looking for a serene holiday with a bit of royal mystique (the fort has secret passages and hideaway that guests can explore), then the hotel will fit the bill perfectly. Done up with artefacts from the Maratha era, some of the suites still retain the original stone wall of the fort, adding to the historical charm.

Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad 

Overlooking the city of Hyderabad is the magnificent Taj Falaknuma Palace, formerly home to the Nizam. The once-in-a-lifetime experience starts even before you enter the palace hotel—a grand entry with a horse-drawn carriage awaits you. Once inside the premises, get ready to unwind in the lap of luxury in one of the gilded rooms and suites that have been restored by the Nizam’s wife. Each has irresistible views of the palace courtyard and the city. If you want to explore the popular landmarks, then the hotel arranges personal concierges that take you around on tours of Charminar, Mecca Masjid, Golconda Fort, and Chowmahalla Palace among others.

Lead image: The Belgadia Palace

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